Senate Bill (SB) 79 makes qualifying “transit-oriented housing developments” an allowed use on sites zoned for residential, mixed, or commercial development that are located near specified transit stops in urban transit counties. The law takes effect on July 1, 2026.
SB 79, signed by Governor Newsom on October 10, 2025, is codified in Government Code sections 65912.155–65912.162. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) oversees compliance by reviewing local SB 79 ordinances and TOD alternative plans for substantial compliance. HCD is also required to promulgate standards for inclusion of SB 79 sites in the housing element sites inventory. Each metropolitan planning organization (MPO) must produce a tiered map of TOD stops and zones within its region.
Last updated: 2/13/2026
SB 79 Ordinance and TOD Alternative Plan
Although all local jurisdictions are mandated to process qualifying SB 79 housing development projects when the law becomes effective on July 1, 2026, they are not required to adopt and enact an SB 79 ordinance or TOD alternative plan.
A local jurisdiction has the option to adopt an SB 79 ordinance and/or TOD alternative plan to modify certain SB 79 applicable sites or development standards, provided the ordinance or plan meets the applicable statutory requirements.
Draft SB 79 ordinance and TOD alternative plan
Per Government Code section 65912.160, subdivision (d)(1), the draft ordinance and/or TOD alternative plan must be submitted to HCD two weeks (14 calendar days) before the scheduled adoption date by the local legislative body (e.g., City Council or Board of Supervisors).
Adopted and enacted SB 79 ordinance and TOD alternative plan
Per Government Code section 65912.160, subdivision (d)(2), an adopted ordinance and/or TOD alternative plan mut be submitted to HCD within 60 calendar days of enactment.
Submittal Checklist and TOD Sites Template – Materials coming!
HCD is preparing a detailed submittal checklist and TOD sites template that will specify the information that should be submitted for HCD to complete its review.
Until then, please contact HCD staff directly at SB79questions@hcd.ca.gov to coordinate on your local jurisdiction’s SB 79 ordinance or TOD alternative plan submittal.
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All draft and enacted ordinances and TOD alternative plans must be submitted to HCD.
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All letters issued are available to the public and organized by jurisdiction, date and subject.
Need technical assistance?
If you have any questions or need technical assistance, please visit the Housing Accountability Unit Portal.